The bacterium is often linked to domestic sheep and goats but is also found in the growing population of exotic aoudad sheep in West Texas. While aoudads are merely carriers and show no symptoms, bighorns are highly susceptible, leading to deadly consequences. Efforts are underway by researchers, wildlife biologists, and landowners to find solutions to this complex problem.
Historically, bighorn sheep have roamed the mountain ranges of West Texas for thousands of years. However, by the late 1800s, their numbers dwindled due to unregulated hunting and overgrazing. Restoration efforts began in 1954, leading to the successful transplantation of over 800 bighorns in the Trans-Pecos region, with support from various conservation organizations and landowners.
The introduction of aoudads in the late 1950s has complicated these efforts. TPWF is now working with Clay Brewer and other stakeholders to develop a science-based plan to address the aoudad dynamic. A recent successful translocation of bighorn sheep from Elephant Mountain to the Franklin Mountains aims to protect at least one herd from M. ovi, as the Franklin Mountains are free of aoudads.
“All of us who are passionate about bighorn sheep conservation in Texas need to pull in the same direction,” said Brewer. “How well we can come together now will determine the future of bighorn sheep in Texas.”
